Raducanu Cautious in Public After Stalker Ordeal
Raducanu Reflects on Struggles, Safety, and Starting Fresh on Grass
Emma Raducanu admits the past four years since her stunning US Open victory have brought more than just fame and success—they’ve come with a heavy toll.
From online abuse to a frightening stalking incident earlier this year, the 22-year-old says she’s now “wary” when stepping out in public, and those experiences have left a lasting emotional impact.
Back in February, Raducanu was reduced to tears and forced to hide behind the umpire’s chair after being targeted by a stalker during a match in Dubai.
Speaking to BBC Sport ahead of her return to action in the new women’s event at Queen’s Club this week, she opened up about the psychological weight of that ordeal.
“I try not to be careless when I go out now. You only really realise how serious it can get when you’re in that situation—and I don’t want to be there again,” she said. “But I do feel safer now, especially at tournaments. People have been watching out for me more.”
She credits her improved mental state to having a more solid support system, including the return of her former coach Nick Cavaday for the grass-court season.
Cavaday had stepped back earlier this year due to health concerns but is now working alongside Mark Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray. For Raducanu, having trusted people around her again has made a major difference.
“I’ve realised I just can’t function in a team with people I don’t trust or connect with. Even if logically it seems like someone has something to offer, if the vibe is off, it just lingers and drains me,” she explained.
“Now, I feel like I’ve got good people around me and I’m trying to shake off any negativity.”
Though ranked No. 37 in the world and dealing with recurring back spasms, Raducanu is approaching this grass season with lowered expectations and a calm mindset.
“I’m pretty chilled out about it,” she said. “I don’t want to get too hyped up. I’m just taking it as it comes.”
The Queen’s Club tournament marks the first women’s event there in over 50 years, and being in familiar territory—close to home, family, and friends—has been a comfort for Raducanu.
“It doesn’t feel like a tournament. I go for walks, I know the area, I can detach. That helps.”
She’s even branching out, taking on a rare doubles appearance with British No.1 Katie Boulter. “I’m nervous.
I haven’t really played doubles or even practiced it,” she laughed. “But I’ll follow Katie’s lead—I’m good at taking instructions.”
Raducanu’s career trajectory has been anything but straightforward. Plagued by injuries, surgeries, and a revolving door of coaches, she has often faced intense scrutiny and public judgement. And yet, she sees value in her journey.
“I want to be an example for anyone who’s faced adversity, rejection, or felt written off,” she said. “I’m not saying I’ve come out of the other side yet—but I’m trying, and I’m on my way.”
Despite the setbacks and personal battles, Raducanu remains one of the sport’s most captivating figures, with the determination to keep writing her story—on her own terms.
Raducanu Cautious in Public After Stalker Ordeal